Title: The “United for Peace and Security” project launched in the DRC to strengthen the reform of the Defense sector
Introduction :
The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense and Veterans Affairs, Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo, recently launched the “United for Peace and Security” project in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This project, funded by the European Union and implemented by France’s expertise and the Belgian development agency (ENABEL), aims to strengthen governance, the rule of law and reform of the Defense sector in the country. Focus on the areas of intervention of this project and its objectives.
Strengthening the institutional framework and planning army reform:
The “United for Peace and Security” project plans to support the implementation of army reform in the DRC by strengthening the institutional framework and improving the planning and monitoring of this reform. The objective is to guarantee better governance and a strengthening of the rule of law in the Defense sector.
Modernization of the Defense administration:
The project will also support the modernization of the Defense administration by strengthening human resources management, promoting digitalization and providing support for administrative training. At the same time, it will aim to strengthen accountability and the bond of trust between the armed forces and the population, with emphasis on training in ethics and professional conduct, the strengthening of control bodies in the Defense sector and support for dialogue. between the armed forces and the population.
Protection of civilian populations in conflict zones:
The “United for Peace and Security” project will pay particular attention to the protection of civilian populations living in conflict zones, particularly in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri. It aims to strengthen the capabilities of the army to support and protect civilian populations, thus contributing to better security in these regions.
Caring for victims and improving the living conditions of soldiers:
Finally, the project provides for better care of victims by the military health corps and an improvement in the living conditions of soldiers in the area. This social dimension is essential to ensure the well-being of the armed forces and guarantee their effectiveness on the ground.
Conclusion :
The launch of the “United for Peace and Security” project in the DRC opens new perspectives for the reform of the Defense sector in the country. Thanks to the support of the European Union, French expertise and the Belgian development agency (ENABEL), this project will contribute to strengthening governance, the rule of law and sustainable peace in the DRC.. By improving planning and monitoring of army reform, modernizing Defense administration, protecting civilian populations and improving the living conditions of soldiers, this project will bring positive and lasting changes in the defense sector. Defense in the DRC.